North Portland residents to gather at Historic Kenton Firehouse to share stories of area's history

View full sizeCourtesy of Oregon Historical SocietyVanport, in what is now North Portland, flooded in 1948. It will be one of the topics discussed at the "Community History Storytelling" event April 16.

Whether you’re an old timer or are new to North Portland, there’s an upcoming event that will allow community members to share stories of the area.

The free “Community History Storytelling” event is from noon to 2:30 p.m. April 16 at the Historic Kenton Firehouse, 8105 N. Brandon St. It will feature residents of North Portland who will give personal experiences and community history.

The event is sponsored by Community Outreach of Our United Villages, an Portland organization dedicated to strengthening communities' vitality.

Speakers include:

Colleen Hosmer and Patricia Holder (the Irish Sisters): Their family owned the St. Johns review from 1926-1972.

Ray Guimary: A native Oregonian who lived in the Peninsula district for 25 years.

A light lunch will be provided and an RSVP is requested. Make arrangements by calling 503-546 or messaging outreach@ourunitedvillages.org. Child care, transportation and interpretation are available upon request by Monday.